Communications & Technology

Semester: Spring 2008

Class Unique: 28420

Course ID: 379M

Credit Hours: 3

Ever wonder why we have to dial 10 numbers for a phone call? Do you know why we don't buy stamps for e-mail, or why everyone's e-mail address or Instant Messaging Address doesn't have to be 10 characters? What is the technical and legal difference between Vonage's service, ordinary phone service and Skype? Is MySpace going to regulated as a phone company? Can the cable company legally block a lawful music download?
This class provides for a foundation of understanding the policy and legal questions surrounding today's use of communications technologies. It also examines whether or not the administrative legal system is helping or hurting the current stated economic and policy goals of "Competition" and "Universal Service."
Students should "not be afraid" of technology and technical terms, a PC is required in the second half of the class.
Grades will be based on the following: 1. Class participation and preparation (10%); 2. Midterm (35%); 3. Final (55%).